As we ride into the city, it’s almost completely abandoned. I see a few face peaking out of the townhouses.

“Who are they?” Aaron asked nodding at one of them. Tristan snorted.

“Traitors,” he said, “they’re the nobility who stood by Brayton.”

“Things aren’t that simple,” I said softly. “We don’t know what was promised to them, what was threatened.” Lisette looked at me. “Anything like you Dreamed, Princess?”

“There were, if you can believe it, fewer people,” she muttered. Elodie smiled. “General, if you could secure the market, we’re going to the palace.”

“We’re?” Aaron said. She looked at him and nodded.

“Yes,” she said, “you, and me, and the twins.” He nodded and the four off us rode towards the large white building. Of course once we got in the gates we all heard the woosh and hiss of shadows. We dismounted and then Lisette went inside. She’d told us to stay behind, and so we did.

“We should be in there,” Tristan said, pacing, and then glancing up at the black guards on the balconies. “Why aren’t they attacking?”

“Who knows,” Aaron said, “but she’ll need us eventually.” I nodded and sat down on the ground. “What are you doing?”

“Ugh,” Tristan rolled his eyes. “She’s getting ready to commune.”

“She can do that?” Aaron said and looked at me. “You can do that?”

“Not always,” I said picking up the soil. “But the Palace is holy ground and there’s a battle going on. He’s probably close by.”

“By him, I assume you mean The God Cornan?” Aaron said.

“She does,” Tristan snorted. “She’s not particularly respectful, ever.” I stuck out my tongue at him. “But apparently the God likes that.”

“He does, actually,” I smiled. “Kick me or something if I’m needed.” I gripped the dirt and exhaled. “I am a soldier, yours to command.” I whispered. Slowly the wind whipped around me and I opened my eyes in the wide airy white temple. I knelt. “Sir.”

“Rise, Champion,” he said, “you’ve done well.”

“Nothing’s done yet,” I said. “I just thought, well,” he looked at me. “The Battle Magic.”

“Ah,” he said, “It is not my gift to bestow. That’s between my sisters.” I frowned. “You’re disappointed.”

“Well, it would be useful,” I said.

“The Sword is prevailing as we speak, it won’t be necessary,” he laughed. “But it will not be without loss.” I swallowed and the wave of understanding washed over me and I gasped awake. I stood up and looked at the boys.

“What is it?” Tristan said, he must have seen it on my face. Aaron walked over and took my hands.

“We have to go,” I said softly. “Aaron, your father.” He looked at me. “Tristan you’ll stay.” He nodded and looked towards the door.

“What did you See?” Aaron asked me. I shook my head. “Thena, is he dead?”

“No,” I said, “no, not yet.”